Thursday, July 31, 2025

Could Removing Capital Gains Taxes on Home Sales Revive the Housing Market?

 

A new proposal suggests removing capital gains taxes on primary home sales to boost the housing market. Here’s what it could mean for homeowners and buyers.


    As we review housing market activity over the past six months and into the early weeks of Q3, signs point to ongoing challenges: limited housing supplyreluctant sellers, and high mortgage rates continue to slow momentum.

    What’s Being Proposed?

    A policy is under discussion that would eliminate capital gains taxes when selling a primary home, regardless of the profit amount. This would be a shift from current rules, which allow homeowners to exclude up to:

    • $250,000 in gains if filing single

    • $500,000 in gains if married filing jointly

    These limits were set in 1997 and have not changed, despite rising home values in many markets.

    Removing this cap could encourage more homeowners—especially long-time owners with significant equity—to sell, potentially increasing inventory in a tight market.


    What’s the Goal?

    The idea behind this proposal is to stimulate the housing market by:

    • Encouraging more home listings

    • Making it easier for individuals to downsize, relocate, or upgrade

    • Reducing the financial hesitation that comes with selling appreciated properties

    It’s seen as one of several possible ways to improve housing market movement during a time when many homeowners are “locked in” by lower mortgage rates and concerned about tax implications on home sale profits.


    Who Would Be Affected?

    While only about 15% of homeowners currently exceed the existing capital gains exclusion, that percentage is expected to grow—particularly in high-appreciation areas.

    This proposal would mostly impact:

    • Long-term homeowners who have seen significant gains

    • Those in regions with steep home price growth over the last decade

    • Potential move-up or downsizing buyers delaying action due to tax concerns


    Considerations

    Supporters believe this could lead to more listings, giving buyers more options in a low-inventory market.

    However, economists and policy analysts also note potential trade-offs, including:

    • The possibility of a higher federal deficit unless the change is offset

    • Questions about how much it would actually improve affordability for first-time buyers

    • Concerns about whether it would impact wealthier sellers more than others

    At this stage, the proposal is being discussed and would need formal legislative action to move forward.


    Why It Matters

    Whether or not this policy becomes law, it reflects ongoing efforts to explore ways to ease housing supply issues and improve market mobility. For those considering selling or buying in the next year, it’s a development worth monitoring closely.


    Key Takeaways

    • A proposal is under consideration to remove capital gains taxes on primary home sales.

    • The goal is to increase housing inventory by reducing tax barriers for homeowners.

    • While only a minority of sellers currently pay capital gains on sales, the number is rising.

    • The impact would vary by region, homeowner equity, and individual financial situations.

    • It remains a proposal and would require legislative approval before becoming law.


    Have questions about how this could affect your situation?
    Let’s connect. Staying informed on potential housing trends can help you make smarter decisions—whether you're buying, selling, or just planning ahead.

    Joe Costa and The Park Place Collective Group

    402 West Broadway, Suite 400

    San Diego, CA 92101

    619-990-7552

    Tuesday, July 29, 2025

    Cannabis Business Owners Can Finally Get Life Insurance Protection

    For years, cannabis business owners and their employees faced one major roadblock: life insurance protection.Despite building successful dispensaries, cultivation facilities, and related businesses, most owners were told “no” when they tried to secure basic coverage for themselves, their partners, or their employees. Federal restrictions kept traditional carriers from stepping in, leaving families, businesses, and key employees exposed.

    Despite building successful dispensaries, cultivation facilities, and related businesses, most owners were told “no” when they tried to secure basic coverage for themselves, their partners, or their employees. Federal restrictions kept traditional carriers from stepping in, leaving families, businesses, and key employees exposed.


    Why Life Insurance Protection Matters More Than Ever

    The cannabis industry is booming — valued at over $30 billion in 2023 and expected to exceed $50 billion by the end of the decade. But with that growth comes responsibility.


    Without proper life insurance protection, a single unexpected event — like the death of a partner or a key employee — can unravel everything a business owner has worked for. Families can be left without financial security. Businesses can collapse under the strain of buyouts or lost leadership.

    That’s why Joe Costa and Park Place Collective have made it their mission to help cannabis business owners protect their loved ones, their companies, and their employees with affordable, flexible coverage options.


    What Park Place Collective Offers Cannabis Businesses

    With a deep understanding of the challenges this industry faces, Park Place Collective has built a suite of solutions designed specifically for cannabis companies:

    • Buy-Sell Insurance – Ensures your partners can buy out your share if something happens to you, protecting your family and the company.

    • Key Person Insurance – Helps your business survive financially if a critical leader or employee passes away unexpectedly.

    • Employee Bonus Plans – Cash value life insurance used as a retention tool for top talent.

    • Personal Life Insurance – Portable policies that move with you when you change jobs or retire, keeping your loved ones protected.

    Unlike traditional group policies, these plans are designed to fit the unique needs of cannabis business owners and their team


    Affordable Options for Every Situation

    Life insurance doesn’t have to be expensive — even for cannabis owners. Park Place Collective offers affordable term and permanent coverage, with options like:

    • $500,000 Personal Coverage (20-Year Term):

      • Male 60 – $231 per month

      • Female 60 – $175 per month

    • $2,000,000 Buy-Sell Coverage (10-Year Term):

      • Male 45 – $102 per month

      • Female 45 – $90 per month

    • $1,000,000 Key Person Coverage (10-Year Term):

      • Male 50 – $81 per month

      • Female 55 – $66 per month

    For just a few dollars a day, business owners can secure peace of mind for their families and employees.


    Why Work With Joe Costa and Park Place Collective?

    With Joe Costa’s experience and the specialized knowledge of Park Place Collective, cannabis businesses finally have a partner who understands their world. This isn’t a cookie-cutter solution from a company that doesn’t “get it.”

    Joe Costa and his team handle the complexity — from underwriting to navigating industry regulations — so owners can focus on running their business while taking care of their loved ones and employees.


    Take the First Step


    Getting coverage is simple — and it costs nothing to see what you qualify for.

    Whether you’re a cannabis business owner, a money manager, or a broker serving this growing industry, now is the time to protect your family, your company, and your team.


    Contact Joe Costa (NMLS: 113396) and Park Place Collective (NMLS: 2571108) today to schedule a no-obligation consultation. 619-990-7552- info@parkplacecollective.com See how easy it can be to get the protection you’ve been waiting for. 

    Wednesday, July 23, 2025

    Dreaming of a Home in Mexico? Now You Can Finance It with Park Place Collective

     





    Picture this: you’re waking up to ocean waves in Cabo… sipping your morning coffee on a sunny patio in Puerto Vallarta… or hosting friends at your dream villa in Tulum.

    For years, buying property in Mexico felt like a cash-only deal or a complicated maze. But not anymore.

    At Park Place Collective, we’re making it simple for U.S. and international buyers to finance their dream properties in Mexico—whether it’s a vacation home, an investment rental, or your permanent escape.

    Big Loans. Flexible Terms. No Hassle.


    With our new loan programs, you can:


    • Borrow up to $2.5 million
    • Choose from 15, 20, 25, or 30-year terms
    • Get competitive rates designed for buyers just like you
    • Finance everything from beachfront villas to city condos

    Whether you’re buying your first getaway or upgrading to the dream home you’ve been talking about for years, we’ve got the right loan to fit your goals.

    Why Finance Instead of Paying Cash?


    Financing gives you flexibility. You can keep your cash free for other investments, build equity while enjoying your property, and lock in predictable monthly payments. Plus, you don’t need to liquidate your entire portfolio just to buy the house you want.

    Ready to Make Mexico Yours?


    Buying property across the border doesn’t have to be complicated. Our team specializes in helping buyers just like you secure financing quickly and stress-free.

    If you’ve been waiting for the perfect time to own a piece of paradise, this is it.

    Click here to learn more and get started today Contact Us

    Monday, July 21, 2025

    The Remote Worker's Guide to Securing a Mortgage

    As a remote worker, you have the advantage of choosing where you live, opening up a world of possibilities both personally and financially. Whether you prefer the tranquility of rural areas or seek more affordable housing options outside expensive cities, getting a mortgage while working remotely may require some additional documentation, such as a remote work letter.

    In this article, we'll explore the importance of a remote work letter in the mortgage application process and what it entails.

    Do You Need a Remote Work Letter for Your Mortgage?

    In most cases, yes, you will need a remote work letter when applying for a mortgage loan. The purpose of this letter is to provide verification of your employment and income during the underwriting process. Underwriters are responsible for verifying the information you provide, including your employment details.

    What Should the Remote Work Letter Include?

    The remote work letter serves to confirm the terms of your employment and specifically states that you are authorized to work and live in a different area. To be valid, the letter should be signed and dated, stating that you will be a remote wage earner for a minimum of three years and not just temporarily. Here are the key details that should be included in the letter:

    1. Terms of Employment: The letter should confirm that you have permission to work remotely and outline the specific terms of your employment.

    2. Duration of Remote Work: It should state that your remote work arrangement is a long-term arrangement and not a temporary solution.

    3. Salary Information: Your current salary or pay rate should be clearly mentioned in the letter to provide the lender with a comprehensive understanding of your financial situation.

    4. Employment Status: The letter should mention your job position and the current status of that position, such as full-time or part-time employment.

    5. Official Company Letterhead: For credibility, the remote work letter should be printed on your employer's official letterhead, including their contact information.

    As a remote worker applying for a mortgage, it's important to understand the significance of a remote work letter. This document verifies your employment and income, assuring the lender that you have a stable source of income to repay the mortgage.

    When obtaining a remote work letter, ensure it includes the necessary information, such as the duration of your remote work arrangement, salary details, and employment status. By providing this documentation, you can confidently pursue your dream of homeownership while working remotely.

    Remember, each lender may have specific requirements, so it's crucial to communicate with your mortgage professional to ensure you meet all necessary documentation and qualifications for a successful mortgage application as a remote worker.

    Joe Costa and The Park Place Collective Group

    402 West Broadway, Suite 400

    San Diego, CA 92101

    619-990-7552

    Friday, July 18, 2025

    How Many Times Can You Use Your VA Loan Benefits? The Surprising Answer

     



    Are you a veteran, an active-duty service member, or a surviving spouse? Well, guess what? You can use your VA loan benefit not just once but as many times as you want!

    As long as you're still eligible for a VA loan and can qualify for a home loan, there's no limit to the number of mortgages you can take out using your VA benefits.

    Believe it or not, you can even have more than one VA loan simultaneously under certain circumstances!

    VA home loans are designed specifically for those who have served our country in the armed forces; in some cases, their surviving spouses are also eligible. The great thing about these loans is that you don't need to worry about making a down payment when purchasing a home.

    The down payment is often the biggest hurdle for homebuyers, especially if you're a first-timer. So with the down payment requirement eliminated with VA loans, homeownership becomes much more accessible.

    How Do VA Loans Work?

    VA loans are backed by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). They don't issue the loans directly, but they insure mortgages given by lenders. This means that lenders take on less risk, and as a result, VA loans often come with more attractive terms than other loan types like conventional or FHA loans.

    To be eligible for a VA loan, you'll need to meet specific requirements based on your service history. Find out the details at VA.gov or contact us for personalized help.

    Costs Associated with VA Loans

    Okay, let's talk about the cost. The one trade-off for obtaining a 0% down payment mortgage is that you must pay the VA funding fee. But don't let that discourage you! This fee is a one-time payment that helps cover the cost of the VA loan program.

    Here's the good news: If you're a veteran with a VA-approved disability, you're exempt from paying the funding fee. The same goes for surviving spouses who qualify, meaning if your spouse passed away while in action or due to a service-connected injury. Oh, and here's another exception: If you return to active duty after receiving a Purple Heart, you won't have to pay the funding fee either.

    For first-time VA borrowers who make a down payment of less than 5%, there's a fee equal to 2.15% of the loan amount. Subsequent borrowers with the same down payment pay just a bit more at 3.3%. If you can put down a larger down payment, your funding fee will be lower. And guess what? You can pay this fee at closing or finance it into the loan.

    Here To Help You, Every Step of the Way

    So, if you're considering buying a home and taking advantage of these fantastic benefits, why not reach out to us, your local mortgage professional? We can guide you through the process and help you secure a VA loan that suits your needs.

    Joe Costa and The Park Place Collective Group

    619-990-7552

    www.parkplacecollective.com

    Wednesday, July 16, 2025

    Qualify for a Home Loan Without Income Documents or Employment Info? Yes, You Can.

     

    How the Park Place Collective’s Asset Qualifier Program Helps Borrowers Who Don’t Fit the Traditional Mold

    If you're financially secure but don’t have traditional income—or your employment history is unconventional—you might feel stuck when it comes to qualifying for a mortgage. At The Park Place Collective Group, we get it. That’s why we created a lending solution that focuses on what you have, not how you earn.

    Introducing our Asset Qualifier Program — designed specifically for individuals who have strong liquid assets but don’t check all the boxes in a traditional mortgage application.

    Who Is This Program For?

    • Self-employed borrowers with fluctuating income
    • Retirees with significant savings but no employment
    • Business owners reinvesting earnings into growth
    • High-net-worth individuals with liquid assets but complex tax returns
    • Anyone tired of jumping through hoops for income verification

    What Makes This Program Different?

    Most alternative lending programs still require some form of income documentation or use asset depletion formulas to calculate “implied” income. Ours doesn’t.

    With this program:

    ✅ No employment information is required

    ✅ No debt-to-income (DTI) calculation

    ✅ No income documentation at all

    We qualify you based solely on your accumulated liquid assets.

    Program Highlights

    • Loan amounts up to $4 million
    • Interest-only options available (30- or 40-year terms)
    • Credit scores starting at 620
    • All property types welcome: Primary residence, Second home, Investment
    • ARMs and Fixed options: 5/6, 7/6, 10/6 ARM, 15, 30, and 40-year FRM (40-year term is interest-only only)
    • Multiple financed properties allowed
    • Non-Warrantable Condos considered

    This program gives you the freedom to leverage your assets—not your pay stubs—to access financing and make your next big move.

    Ready to Qualify on Your Terms?

    Let’s talk about how we can help you turn your financial strength into homeownership.

    📞 Call us at 619-990-7552

    📧 Email: info@parkplacecollective.com

    🗓️ Or schedule a personalized consultation

    Joe Costa

    The Park Place Collective Group

    NMLS: 2571108

    Flexible. Creative. Tailored Lending Solutions

    Monday, July 14, 2025

    Buying a Home Before Finalizing Your Divorce: Risks and Realities

     


    Going through a divorce and thinking about buying a new home? While the fresh start sounds appealing, purchasing property before your divorce is finalized can cause serious legal and financial issues.

    Why It’s Risky
    If you’re still legally married, a new home could be considered marital property—even if you buy it alone. That means your spouse might have a legal claim to it, depending on your state’s laws.

    It Can Affect Your Divorce Settlement

    • Alimony/Child Support: A new mortgage may impact how much you pay or receive.

    • Debt Division: Adding new debt can complicate how assets and liabilities are split.

    Lenders May Hesitate
    Without a finalized divorce decree, many lenders may delay or deny your mortgage application. They need clarity on support payments and financial obligations.

    Smart Next Steps

    • Talk to your attorney: Understand your rights and risks.

    • Consult a mortgage pro: Know what’s possible and what to avoid.

    • Consider waiting: Finalizing your divorce first could save you major headaches.

    Final Thought
    Buying a home during a divorce is possible—but it’s often better to wait. We’re here to help you plan ahead and move forward with confidence when the time is right.

    Joe Costa and The Park Place Collective Group

    619-990-7552

    402 West Broadway, Suite 400

    San Diego, CA 92101

    Wednesday, July 2, 2025

    HELOC vs. HELOAN: Discover the Best Option for Your Home Financing Needs

     

    Understanding your financing options can be overwhelming. Let's break down HELOCs and HELOANs to help you choose the best solution for your home goals.

    When it comes to financing your home, understanding your options is key. Two popular choices people often consider are a Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC) and a Home Equity Loan (HELOAN). While both of these choices allow you to tap into the equity you’ve built in your home, they work quite differently and can serve different financing needs. Let’s dive into the details of each, and help you discover which option might be the best fit for your financial goals.

    First, let’s clarify what we mean by home equity. Home equity is the portion of your home that you truly own. It’s the difference between your home’s market value and the amount you owe on your mortgage. As you pay down your mortgage or as your home increases in value, your equity grows. This equity can be a valuable resource when you need funds for things like home improvements, debt consolidation, or even unexpected expenses.

    Now, let’s break down the two options:

    A Home Equity Loan (HELOAN) is a fixed-rate loan where you borrow a lump sum of money against your home’s equity. You’ll receive this amount all at once, making it a great choice for big projects or expenses that need a large amount of cash upfront. Think of it as taking a second mortgage on your home. The repayment terms are generally set for a period of 5 to 30 years, and you’ll make fixed monthly payments that include both principal and interest.

    This type of loan is typically best for those who have a specific need for a large sum of money and want the certainty of fixed payments. For example, if you’re planning a significant home renovation, or if you need to finance a major life event like a wedding or a college education, a HELOAN can provide the funds you need in one go.

    On the other hand, a Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC) works more like a credit card. With a HELOC, you’re given a credit limit based on the equity in your home, and you can draw from it as needed. This means that you can borrow money for smaller projects or expenses over time instead of receiving a lump sum. The interest rate on a HELOC is often variable, which means it may change over time.

    HELOCs typically come with a draw period, which can last several years. During this time, you can borrow money, and you usually only need to make interest payments on the amount you’ve drawn. After the draw period, you’ll enter the repayment phase, where you’ll need to repay both the principal and interest.

    A HELOC is ideal for those who need flexibility in accessing funds. If you’re planning ongoing home projects, like phased renovations, or if you anticipate needing funds for various expenses over time, a HELOC can be a more efficient option.

    So, how do you decide which one is right for you? Here are some factors to consider:

    1. **Purpose of the Funds**: If you have a specific project that requires a large upfront cost, a HELOAN might be your best bet. Conversely, if you’re looking to cover multiple smaller expenses over time, consider a HELOC.

    2. **Payment Structure**: If you prefer the stability of fixed monthly payments, a HELOAN is the way to go. If you want the lower initial payments that come with the draw period of a HELOC and can handle a variable rate, a HELOC could be suitable.

    3. **Interest Rates**: While we won’t get into specific rates, it’s wise to consider how each option may impact your budget. Generally, HELOCs may have lower initial rates, but since they can be variable, it’s essential to understand how that could change over time.

    4. **Your Financial Situation**: Take stock of your overall financial health. If you're confident in your ability to manage debt and make payments, either option could work. However, if you prefer a more predictable payment plan, a HELOAN could be more comfortable for you.

    5. **Future Plans**: Think about your long-term plans. If you anticipate moving in the next few years, consider how each option might impact your finances, especially if you plan to sell your home.

    As you weigh your options, remember that your personal circumstances play a crucial role in choosing the right financing solution. It’s essential to assess your current financial situation, future goals, and personal preferences. Additionally, consider consulting with a mortgage professional who can provide insights tailored to your specific needs and guide you through the process.

    If you’re still unsure about which option is the best for you, don’t hesitate to reach out. Joe Costa and Park Place Collective is knowledgeable team of mortgage loan officers is here to help you navigate the complexities of home financing decisions. By discussing your goals and needs, we can help you determine whether a HELOC or HELOAN is the better fit for your financial landscape. Let’s work together to find the best solution for your home financing needs. Reach out today!

    Joe Costa NMLS: 113396

    Park Place Collective NMLS 2571108

    office: 619-990-7552

    Info@parkplacecollective.com